By Kingsley Agim
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Cross River State, Governor Bassey Otu, has expressed deep concern over the lingering communal clashes between the people of Biakpan in Biase Local Government Area and their neighbours in Etono 2, describing the conflict as “embarrassing” to the state.
Speaking on the crisis when he received a delegation from the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star led by Patriarch Bassey Imowo, the governor lamented the repeated bloodshed and warned that the government would no longer tolerate disputes degenerating into violence.
He disclosed that where land remains the root of communal crises, such as in the case of Biakpan and Etono 2, the state would not hesitate to step in and take over the disputed parcels to forestall further bloodletting.
“The issues here are very serious. We have stepped into the Biakpan–Etono communal war. I believe we can settle this issue because we have made it clear to all restive communities that where there is controversy over lands, the government will only have to take over such lands. That will avert continual bloodshed,” he stated.
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Governor Otu said the persistent violence was particularly disturbing because Biakpan attracts thousands of visitors and pilgrims from across the world annually, which also boosts tourism, a revenue earner for the state.
He noted that such conflicts create a negative impression of the state.
He further revealed that some arrests had been made and assured that those found culpable would be used as examples to deter others.
He blamed the escalation of the conflict partly on lapses by some officials, stressing that if they had lived up to their responsibilities, the violence would have been curtailed.
“With eminent personalities in both communities, I’m surprised that such barbaric acts have persisted. But I am happy with the efforts and intervention by His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu to bring the two communities together,” the governor said.
While describing the conflict as “embarrassing,” Otu maintained that his administration would not fold its arms and allow the bloodshed to continue.
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Speaking earlier, Bassey Imowo commended the governor for his proactive efforts at curbing security issues and developmental strides.
He said as a result of the conflict, his organisation has been unable to hold its pilgrimage activities in Biakpan, which attracts thousands of pilgrims, tourists, and researchers.
Imowo said, “Regrettably, the recent violent attacks and counterattacks on both communities have posed serious security threats and put on hold all our programmes in Biakpan and environs.
“It is indeed sad and worrisome because there cannot be any form of development that will be achieved amidst such a dangerous situation as the religious tourists scheduled to regularly pay homage to the birthplace of Leader Olumba Olumba Obu is adversely hampered; obviously, the State Government’s developmental efforts too, will slow down thereby reducing economic benefits to the people within that part of Cross River State.”
The delegation appealed to the Governor to prioritise the restoration of peace by permanently resolving the conflict between the two sister communities.
“It is when the atmosphere is peaceful that religious tourists, especially foreign nationals will feel safe to resume regular visitations to Biakpan.”
